TRACE provides overnight conversion

Citation

(1998), "TRACE provides overnight conversion", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 70 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.1998.12770ead.006

TRACE provides overnight conversion

TRACE provides overnight conversion

Keywords Airbus, Conversion, Trace

The overnight conversion of Airbus aircraft from business class configuration to a VIP interior found only in the best-appointed executive jets is now possible thanks to a new modular concept, designed and produced by French designer, Jacques Pierrejean and TRACE Worldwide. The conversion kit can be carried in the aircraft's hold, enabling on-site role changes to be effected. The development is seen as a significant advance in operators' asset utilisation.

TRACE's Biggin Hill-based completions centre has just installed the first such conversion in an Airbus A310 (Plates 1 and 2). The contract followed extensive talks between TRACE and Airbus Industrie, concerning the development of a quick exchange kit to adapt aircraft to a variety of roles, including head of state and flying hospital.

The VIP interior, which TRACE believes to be the most "presidential" on the market, can be configured to provide a variety of facilities. Options include two/four luxury seat and table combinations, divans which convert into beds, wardrobes and bars. All fixtures are mounted on stressed pallets which are secured to the aircraft's existing seat track.This modular approach has not inhibited the visual appeal or functionality of the interior, which features a maple burr finish.

Plate 1 Airbus A310 in business class configuration before installation of the TRACE modular conversion kit

Plate 2 Airbus A310 with its "presidential" interior installed by TRACE Worldwide Ltd

TRACE has modified an LD6 cargo container to enable the aircraft to carry the VIP conversion kit or the business class seating, depending on which is in use at the time. The company is providing full training and spares support for the operator.

Steve Brenchley, general manager of TRACE Aircraft Completions, said: "This new concept opens up all sorts of opportunities in terms of aircraft utilisation. Our product is very competitively priced and we are looking to generate further sales around the world".

For further details contact TRACE Worldwide Ltd. Tel: +44 (0) 1959 570700; Fax: +44 (0) 1959 540668.